For the most part, Colorado waterfalls are fairly accessible and easy to find, often being located in plain sight (with or without hiking). However, there is one Colorado waterfall that is so hidden and virtually unknown that most people will never get the privilege of seeing it. That waterfall is, of course, Rainbow Falls.

Located under a highway overpass near Manitou Springs, Rainbow Falls is a beautiful stream of water that is surrounded by rocky cliffs and fed by the nearby Fountain Creek.
Flickr/mark byzewski
Nicknamed the "Graffiti Waterfall" (for obvious reasons), Rainbow Falls sits beneath its namesake 1934 bridge, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, yet it was still often overlooked and virtually forgotten for several decades.
Wikimedia Commons
After the summer flooding of 2013, Rainbow Falls was again on locals' radar, leading to the formation of the Rainbow Falls Recreation Area and the restoration of both the Rainbow Falls Bridge and graffiti-laden waterfall.
TripAdvisor/kpHutch

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In the summer of 2018, the area was temporarily closed in an effort to clean up the visible vandalism, which has been an ongoing, yet worthwhile feat.
Flickr/Ben Simo
Since the clean-up is still in progress, it is recommended to verify that the area is open before visiting, which can be done by visiting El Paso County's website.
The Rainbow Falls Recreation Area Trailhead can be accessed by taking I-25 to Exit 24 (Cimarron), heading west for 5.5 miles, and turning left onto Serpentine Drive.
TripAdvisor/kpHutch
Once you arrive at the trailhead, follow the dirt trail for just 0.1 mile, which takes you directly to the falls.
Rainbow Falls in Manitou Springs/Facebook
Rainbow Falls recently re-opened on September 8 and will remain open until October 28, 2018, when it closes for the season.
E Hickman/Google

Here’s a handy map to help you find the hidden falls:

Discover even more of our favorite waterfalls by clicking 11 Unbelievable Colorado Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight… No Hiking Required.

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